President

Updated June 29, 2009

Obama Confident of Free Trade Deal With Colombia

by  

AP

President Obama said barriers remain, but he's confident a trade deal can be reached.

WASHINGTON -- President Obama says he is confident that the U.S. and Colombia can ultimately reach a deal on a stalled trade agreement.

He spoke to reporters after White House meetings on Monday with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe. Obama said some clear difficulties remain, but that a compromise can be worked out that is good for the people of both nations.

He expressed concern about killings of labor leaders in Colombia and about human rights in general there. But Obama also said that Uribe is committed to the rule of law.

Obama said he has instructed U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk to work with Uribe's team on how to best proceed.

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